***** (5 Stars)
“The true heart of the ocean of comedy musicals!”
James Cameron’s 1997 motion picture retelling of the Titanic disaster featuring the beguiling love story of Jack and Rose has been parodied many times but none more successfully than in 2017 when Titanique debuted in Los Angeles.
Featuring a book by Tye Blue, Marla Mindelle and Constantine Rousouli this comedic tour de triumph retells the movies story from the point of view of Celine Dion, Played by the stunning Lauren Drew in the performance of lifetime. It’s a one hundred minute long romp blending Dion’s hit songs with up to date musical and cultural references in a show that simply can’t fail to raise a smile with its joyful heart.
This show directed by book writer Tye Blue features an outstanding ensemble cast lead by Drew as Dion and everyone of them shine and no wonder as it features the very best of the current generation of west end stars. Rob Houchen “Jack Dawson” and Kat Ronney “Rose DeWitt Bukater” are everything Leo and Kate were and so much more delivering excellent comedy timing and honey soaked vocals throughout. Darren Bennett “Victor Garber”, Charlotte Wakefield “Molly Brown” and Stephen Guarino “Ruth DeWitt Bukater” equally shine and make the most of there on stage time. Every show needs a good baddie and west end star Jordan Luke Cage delivers in spades as “Cal Hockley” he enshrews panto villainy but captures the comedic potential of the character beautifully.
In the role of Seaman/Iceberg is strictly come dancing break out star Layton Williams who works hard especially in drag as “Iceberg” but as with all the shows Williams does heis simply being himself on stage rather than a character, that being said he does himself awfully well! Rounding out the onstage company are three powerhouse vocalists, Adrianne Langley, Madison Swan and Rodney Vubya who bring extra sparkle and magic to the songs which are delivered in polished style by musical director Adam Wachter and his four piece onstage band.
Production wise this is a show that can hold its head up high with any of the bigger productions and theatres in the west end and proves that while the Criterion is one of the more intimate venues it’s a beacon for the arts. Gabriel Hainer Evansohn and Grace Laubacher’s scenic design perfectly captures the essence of Titanic’s grandeur but also the golden era of musical theatre. This is enhanced by Alejo Vietti stunning costume design that perfectly recreates Jack and Rose from the film alongside the other characters but also ensures Layton looks stunning in full stockings, Heels and silver glittering drag. Paige Seber lighting design makes the most of the Criterion’s stage and auditorium and gives true musical glamour to the whole show which is ably supported by the excellent sound design from Lawrence Schober.
Titanique was due to have limited run in the west end but has proven so popular it’s been extended into 2026 and its the true show of the moment and brings to the stage the one thing we need more than any other right now in our lives and that’s Laughter! This is a joyous extravaganza that is the true heart of the ocean of comedy musicals and long may its heart go on! Unmissable! So grab those tickets now!!!
Titanique, the Criterion Theatre, London booking until January 2026, For more information and tickets go to: Titanique the Musical
ScotsGay Arts 